While Paris is renowned for its iconic landmarks and cultural attractions, many visitors are surprised to learn that there are gorgeous beaches within easy reach of the City of Light. For those looking to escape the urban bustle and enjoy some sun and sand during their trip to Paris, there are several beautiful beaches near Paris that are worth exploring.
Whether you’re seeking family-friendly shores or secluded coves, this guide will help you discover some of the best beaches in France near Paris, easily accessible by train or car. So pack your swimsuit and prepare to experience a different side of France, where Parisian chic meets coastal charm.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels near Paris 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hôtel Barrière Le Westminster
- ✨ 5-Star: Le Grand Hôtel Cabourg - MGallery
- 🏨 4-Star: Domaine Saint Clair - Le Donjon
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hôtel Le Corsaire
- 💸 Cheap: ibis budget Berck Sur Mer
- 🏢 Apartment: Studio du Pêcheur
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Kyriad Prestige Residence Cabourg - Dives-sur-Mer
- 🏩 For Couples: La Maison d'Eugène
🌞 Top 10 Best Popular Beaches Near Paris
1. 🌟 Deauville Beach – One of the Best Beaches in France for Glamour Spotting
Just two hours from Paris by train, perfect for day trips or weekends. 2 km of fine golden sand, ideal for sunbathing and long walks. Iconic colorful beach umbrellas and cabanas line the shore. Elegant boardwalk (Les Planches) features names of famous film stars. Chic atmosphere with high-end shops and restaurants nearby. Host to the American Film Festival in September. Great for people-watching and celebrity spotting. Water sports available including sailing and windsurfing. Beautiful Belle Époque architecture surrounds the beach area. Thalassotherapy centers offer luxurious spa treatments by the sea.
Best Hotels Near Deauville Beach 🏨
- La Closerie Deauville – This charming hotel is located just a short walk from the famous Deauville Beach, one of the best beaches near Paris. It offers elegant rooms, a garden, and a terrace, providing a perfect base for exploring the Normandy coast of France.
- Les Embruns – Situated near Deauville Beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving regional cuisine. Its proximity to the beach and the town center makes it an excellent choice for a seaside getaway from Paris.
- L'Augeval – This luxurious hotel is just a short stroll from Deauville Beach and features a spa, indoor pool, and gourmet restaurant. Its elegant rooms and prime location make it one of the best places to stay for a beach holiday near Paris.
2. 🏖️ Trouville-sur-Mer – Best Sandy Beach for Family-Friendly Fun
Located across the river from Deauville, more laid-back atmosphere. Wide, sandy beach with gentle slopes, perfect for families with children. Charming fishing port offering fresh seafood restaurants. Belle Époque architecture lines the picturesque promenade. Kid-friendly activities including mini-golf and a thalassotherapy center. Beautiful 19th-century villa architecture in the town. Famous fish market selling the catch of the day. Beach clubs offer activities for children during summer months. Easily accessible by direct train from Paris Saint-Lazare station. More affordable option compared to neighboring Deauville.
Best Hotels Near Trouville-sur-Mer 🏨
- Hôtel Trouville Centre Ville & Casino – This hotel is located in the heart of Trouville-sur-Mer, just a short walk from the beach. It offers modern rooms, a casino, and easy access to the town’s restaurants and shops, making it a great choice for a lively beach vacation.
- Les Embruns – Situated near the beach in Trouville-sur-Mer, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving regional cuisine. Its location allows guests to easily explore the charming town and enjoy the beautiful Normandy coastline.
- Study du Pêcheur – This cozy hotel is located in the center of Trouville-sur-Mer, just a short walk from the beach. It offers simple yet comfortable rooms and a terrace, providing a budget-friendly option for a beach getaway from Paris.
3. 🏔️ Etretat Beach – Best for Dramatic Coastal Scenery
Located in Normandy, famous for its stunning white chalk cliffs and arches. Pebble beach offers unique texture and sound of waves on stones. Dramatic cliff arches and needle-like rock formation create spectacular views. Inspiration for many Impressionist painters including Monet. Great hiking trails along the cliff tops with panoramic vistas. Charming town with half-timbered houses and seafood restaurants. Excellent spot for photography, especially at sunset. Interesting rock pools and caves to explore at low tide. Golf course on the clifftop offers stunning sea views. Featured in many French films and literature.
Best Hotels Near Etretat Beach 🏨
- Domaine Saint Clair Le Donjon Etretat – This historic hotel is located near the stunning Etretat Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs and natural arches. It offers elegant rooms, a restaurant, and a spa, providing a luxurious base for exploring one of the most beautiful beaches in France.
- Hôtel Le Corsaire – Situated in the heart of Etretat, this hotel is just a short walk from the beach and the famous cliffs. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a terrace with sea views, making it an excellent choice for a coastal getaway from Paris.
- Chambre d'hôte Villa Maurice – This charming bed and breakfast is located near Etretat Beach and offers cozy rooms with garden views. Its peaceful setting and proximity to the beach make it a great choice for a relaxing beach holiday within easy reach of Paris.
4. 🏄♂️ Le Touquet Beach – Best for Water Sports and Nightlife
Known as « Paris-Plage », popular among Parisians for beach getaways. 12 km of fine, white sand perfect for sunbathing and beach games. Offers various water sports including sand yachting and kitesurfing. Elegant town with great shopping and dining options nearby. Beautiful sand dunes and pine forests surround the beach area. Hosts international beach sports events throughout the summer. Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the coastline. Horse riding available on the beach, especially romantic at sunset. Beach clubs and bars for lively nightlife during summer. Easily accessible by train from Paris, about 2.5 hours journey.
Best Hotels Near Le Touquet Beach 🏨
- Hôtel Barrière Le Westminster – This luxurious hotel is located just steps from Le Touquet Beach, a popular destination for Parisians. It offers elegant rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options, providing a high-end beach experience within a few hours’ drive from Paris.
- Hôtel Barrière Le Grand Hôtel Le Touquet – Situated near the beach in Le Touquet, this grand hotel offers stylish rooms, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant. Its prime location and excellent amenities make it one of the best choices for a beach vacation from Paris.
- Le Chalet Hôtel Le Touquet Paris Plage – This cozy hotel is located in the center of Le Touquet, just a short walk from the beach. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a terrace, providing a charming base for exploring the town and enjoying the beautiful coastline.
5. 🚂 Dieppe Beach – Best for Quick Day Trips from Paris by Train
Nearest beach to Paris, perfect for quick day trips. Pebble beach with 1.5 km-long promenade for leisurely strolls. 15th-century castle overlooking the sea offers historical interest. Fresh seafood available at numerous harbor restaurants. Hosts one of the best Saturday morning markets in Normandy. Biennial International Kite Festival in September is a spectacular event. Ferry connection to Newhaven, England for international visitors. Interesting cliff formations at either end of the beach. Thalassotherapy center for relaxing spa treatments by the sea. Rich in history, including a significant role in World War II.
Best Hotels Near Dieppe Beach 🏨
- La Tour aux Crabes – This unique hotel is located in a historic tower near Dieppe Beach, offering stunning sea views. It features elegant rooms, a restaurant, and a terrace, providing a memorable stay in one of the most visited tourist destinations in France.
- Hôtel Aguado – Situated in the heart of Dieppe, this hotel is just a short walk from the beach and the castle. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, making it an excellent choice for exploring the town and enjoying the Normandy coast.
- Arina & Julien – This charming bed and breakfast is located near Dieppe Beach and offers cozy rooms with sea views. Its friendly hosts and proximity to the beach make it a great choice for a relaxing beach getaway from Paris.
6. 🎨 Honfleur’s Plage du Butin – Best for Combining Beach and Culture
Charming seaside experience combined with one of France’s most beautiful port towns. Beach offers views of Le Havre across the Seine estuary. Picturesque old harbor surrounded by slate-covered houses. Inspiration for Impressionist painters like Monet and Boudin. Excellent seafood restaurants in the old town near the beach. Famous wooden church of Sainte-Catherine near the port area. Eugène Boudin Museum showcases works of local artists. Beautiful public gardens offer a peaceful retreat near the beach. Regular art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. Perfect blend of beach relaxation and cultural exploration.
Best Hotels Near Honfleur’s Plage du Butin 🏨
- La Cour Sainte Catherine demeure de charme – This charming hotel is located in the heart of Honfleur, just a 10-minute walk from Plage du Butin. It offers elegant rooms in a 17th-century building with a beautiful courtyard. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and Honfleur’s attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring this picturesque Normandy.
- Hotel Le Dauphin – Situated in the center of Honfleur, this hotel is just a 15-minute walk from Plage du Butin. It features comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local seafood specialties.
- La Maison d'Eugène – This boutique hotel is located in a historic building in Honfleur, a short walk from Plage du Butin. It offers uniquely decorated rooms and a charming garden. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to both the beach and Honfleur’s cultural attractions.
7. 🏰 Cabourg Beach – Best for Belle Époque Charm
Offers one of the longest sandy beaches near Paris at 4 km. Grand Casino and luxury hotels showcase Belle Époque architecture. Famous as Marcel Proust’s favorite seaside resort. Family-friendly with a kids’ club directly on the beach. Beautiful Grand Hôtel, where Proust wrote parts of his masterpiece. Romantic promenade along the seafront, perfect for evening walks. Hosts the Romantic Film Festival annually in June. Thalassotherapy centers offer sea water treatments and spa services. Charming town center with boutique shops and cafes. Golf course nearby for sports enthusiasts.
Best Hotels Near Cabourg 🏨
- Le Grand Hôtel Cabourg - MGallery – This luxurious hotel is located directly on Cabourg’s beautiful sandy beach, one of the closest beaches to Paris. The hotel’s prime location and amenities make it perfect for a relaxing beach getaway, easily accessible from Paris by train in about 2.5 hours or by car in 2 hours.
- Kyriad Prestige Residence Cabourg - Dives-sur-Mer – Located just 2 km from Cabourg beach, this residence offers comfortable apartments with kitchenettes. It features an indoor pool and is close to the train station, making it convenient for visitors from Paris looking for a beach holiday with easy access to other Normandy attractions.
- Demeure de Manneville – This charming B&B is situated in a 19th-century mansion, just a short walk from Cabourg beach. The B&B’s location provides a peaceful retreat while being close to the beach and Cabourg’s attractions, making it an ideal choice for a romantic weekend away from Paris, reachable in about 2.5 hours by train or car.
8. 🏛️ Omaha Beach – Best for Historical Significance
Famous D-Day landing site, rich in World War II history. 5 km of wide, sandy beach perfect for reflective walks. D-Day memorials and museums provide historical context. Beautiful coastal walks with stunning sea views. Quiet and reflective atmosphere, ideal for contemplation. American Cemetery nearby pays tribute to fallen soldiers. Clear waters good for swimming during summer months. Interesting war remnants visible at low tide. Small fishing villages nearby offer fresh seafood. Ideal for history buffs and those seeking a peaceful beach experience.
Best Hotels Near Omaha Beach 🏨
- Les Costils Tribord – This cozy B&B is located just 2 km from Omaha Beach, one of the most famous D-Day landing beaches. The B&B’s proximity to Omaha Beach and other historical sites makes it an excellent base for exploring Normandy’s WWII history, accessible from Paris in about 3 hours by car or 4 hours by train.
- La Ferme aux Chats – This charming farmhouse is situated just 1 km from Omaha Beach, offering a unique stay in a rural setting. The hotel’s location provides easy access to both the beach and historical sites, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and beach lovers visiting from Paris, about a 3-hour drive away.
- Little Omaha – This beachfront hotel offers direct access to Omaha Beach and stunning sea views. The hotel’s prime location on Omaha Beach makes it perfect for those wanting to combine beach relaxation with historical exploration, easily reachable from Paris in about 3.5 hours by car or 4 hours by train.
9. 🪁 Berck-sur-Mer – Best for Kite Flying and Wind Sports
Vast expanse of fine sand, perfect for kite flying and beach games. Hosts the annual International Kite Festival, a spectacular event. Great spot for sand yachting and kitesurfing enthusiasts. Seal colonies visible from the beach at certain times. Family-friendly with plenty of space for children to play. Beautiful dunes and nature reserve surrounding the beach. Charming town with Belle Époque villas and seafood restaurants. Offers a less crowded alternative to more famous beaches. Excellent winds make it ideal for wind-based beach activities. Beautiful sunsets over the wide horizon.
Best Hotels Near Berck-sur-Mer 🏨
- Hôtel Neptune – This hotel is located just 50 meters from Berck-sur-Mer’s expansive sandy beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant with sea views. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and the town center makes it an ideal choice for a beach holiday, accessible from Paris in about 3 hours by car or 3.5 hours by train.
- Hôtel de la Terrasse – Situated on the seafront of Berck-sur-Mer, this hotel offers direct access to the beach and panoramic sea views. It features comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local specialties. The hotel’s beachfront location provides a perfect setting for a relaxing getaway from Paris, reachable in about 3 hours by car or train.
- ibis budget Berck Sur Mer – This budget-friendly hotel is located just 1 km from Berck-sur-Mer beach. It offers simple, modern rooms and free parking. The hotel’s affordable rates and proximity to the beach make it a great option for budget-conscious travelers looking for a beach break near Paris, accessible in about 3 hours by car or train.
10. 🌄 Fécamp Beach – Best for Dramatic Cliffs and Gourmet Experiences
Beautiful pebble beach offering a unique texture underfoot. Impressive white cliffs create a dramatic backdrop. Home to Palais Bénédictine, where the famous liqueur is made. Charming fishing port with fresh seafood restaurants. Less crowded than some of the more famous beaches near Paris. Interesting coastal walks along the cliff tops with sea views. Museum of Fisheries showcases the town’s maritime heritage. Cap Fagnet offers panoramic views of the coastline. Pebble beach is great for stone collecting and appreciating sea-smoothed rocks. Perfect blend of beach, history, and gourmet experiences.
Best Hotels Near Fécamp 🏨
- Aux Premières Loges – This beachfront hotel offers stunning views of Fécamp’s pebble beach and cliffs. It features comfortable rooms with sea views and a restaurant serving fresh seafood. The hotel’s prime location makes it perfect for exploring Fécamp’s attractions and enjoying the beach.
- Le Grand Pavois – Located just 50 meters from Fécamp beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant with panoramic sea views. Its proximity to the beach and Fécamp’s town center makes it an excellent base for exploring the Alabaster Coast, reachable from Paris in about 2.5 hours by car or 3 hours by train.
- L'Albatros – This charming hotel is situated in the heart of Fécamp, just a short walk from the beach. It offers cozy rooms and a warm, friendly atmosphere. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to both the beach and Fécamp’s cultural attractions.
🏄♂️ Beach Activities and Attractions Close to Paris
🏄♂️ Water Sports: Various water sports available at different beaches near Paris. Surfing popular at Biarritz, kitesurfing at Le Touquet-Paris-Plage. Paddleboarding in Deauville and sailing in Honfleur offer calmer options. Equipment rentals and lessons widely available at most beaches. Best enjoyed during summer months when water is warmest.
🚶♀️ Coastal Walks: Normandy coast offers stunning cliffs and picturesque villages for walks. White cliffs of Étretat provide dramatic scenery for hikers. D-Day beaches in Normandy combine history with coastal beauty. Charming port of Honfleur perfect for leisurely strolls and photography.
🏛️ Cultural Attractions: Many beach towns rich with history and cultural attractions. Impressionist Museum in Giverny showcases famous artworks. Medieval abbey of Mont Saint-Michel offers unique historical experience. Honfleur’s old town charm captivates visitors with its architecture and ambiance.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Activities: Numerous family-friendly options at beaches near Paris. Boulogne-sur-Mer aquarium popular for marine life enthusiasts. Mini golf in Deauville provides fun for all ages. Honfleur’s butterfly farm offers unique nature experience. Wide beaches of Cabourg perfect for sandcastle building.
🍽️ Culinary Delights: Coastal cuisine offers variety of fresh seafood and regional specialties. Moules-frites in Trouville and fresh oysters in Cancale are must-tries. Normandy known for Calvados (apple brandy) production. Brittany’s galettes (savory crepes) popular among visitors and locals alike.
🏡 Best Beach Towns and Places to Visit Near Paris
1. 🌟 Deauville: The Parisian Riviera
Just two hours from Paris by train, famous for its glamorous atmosphere. Boasts iconic boardwalk (Les Planches) lined with celebrity names. Luxurious hotels and casinos reminiscent of the Belle Époque era. Hosts international film festivals and prestigious horse racing events. Features high-end boutiques and designer shops for luxury shopping. Beautiful sandy beach with colorful umbrellas and elegant beach cabins.
2. 🐟 Trouville-sur-Mer: Charming Fishing Village
Located across the river from Deauville, offers a more laid-back atmosphere. Features a long, sandy beach (Plage de Trouville) perfect for families. Known for its bustling fish market selling the freshest seafood. Picturesque town center with charming 19th-century Belle Époque villas. Often less expensive than Deauville, great for budget-conscious travelers.
3. 🏔️ Étretat: Natural Wonder
Famous for its stunning white chalk cliffs and natural arches. Located about 2.5 hours northwest of Paris on the Normandy coast. Offers a pebble beach perfect for picnics with dramatic views. Home to Clos Lupin, former residence of author Maurice Leblanc. Features a clifftop golf course with panoramic sea views.
4. 🎨 Honfleur: Artistic Haven
Picturesque old harbor lined with colorful slate-covered houses. Home to the unique wooden Church of Saint Catherine. Hosts the Eugene Boudin Museum showcasing Impressionist art. Features the small but charming Plage du Butin beach. Popular Saturday morning market in Sainte Catherine’s square. Inspiration for many Impressionist painters including Monet.
5. 📚 Cabourg: Marcel Proust’s Favorite
Known for its Belle Époque charm and 4 km of fine sandy beach. Favorite destination of writer Marcel Proust, who stayed at the Grand Hotel. Features a romantic promenade along the seafront, perfect for evening strolls. Hosts the annual Romantic Film Festival in June. Family-friendly with shallow waters ideal for children. Offers a perfect blend of literary history and beach relaxation.
🚌 How to Get to the Beaches in France from Paris
🚂 By Train: Efficient French rail network connects Paris to many coastal destinations. Deauville-Trouville accessible in about 2 hours from Paris Saint-Lazare station. Le Touquet-Paris-Plage reachable in around 2.5 hours with a change at Étaples. Dieppe, one of the closest beaches, just 2 hours from Paris Saint-Lazare. Offers comfortable travel with scenic countryside views.
🚗 By Car: Ideal for visiting multiple beaches or exploring the Normandy coast at your own pace. Étretat reachable in about 2.5 hours northwest of Paris by car. Honfleur approximately 2 hours drive from the city center. Allows flexibility to visit less accessible beaches and coastal towns. Perfect for road trip adventures to beaches in the south of France.
🚌 By Bus: Economical way to reach many beaches close to Paris. Companies like Flixbus and Blablabus operate routes to several coastal destinations. Often takes longer than trains but offers significant cost savings. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking to maximize beach time. Consider overnight trips to arrive fresh in the morning.
🌙 Day Trips vs. Overnight Stays: Many beaches close enough for day trips from Paris, like Trouville-Deauville and Dieppe. Overnight stays allow full immersion in coastal atmosphere and relaxation. Le Touquet, Étretat, and Honfleur recommended for longer stays. Day trips ideal for quick beach fixes and exploring multiple locations.
📅 Best Time to Visit Beaches Near Paris
1. ☀️ Summer Season (June to August)
Peak season with warm, sunny weather perfect for beach activities. Lively atmosphere with locals and tourists enjoying the coastline. Warmest sea temperatures ideal for swimming and water sports. Plenty of beach events and festivals in coastal towns. All amenities and attractions open in beach destinations. Popular beaches like Deauville and Le Touquet can get crowded, especially on weekends.
2. 🍂 Shoulder Season (May and September)
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds and lower prices. More space on beautiful beaches like Étretat and Trouville. Comfortable temperatures for exploring coastal towns and attractions. Better deals on accommodations and restaurants in beach areas. Perfect conditions for coastal walks and photography. Ideal for those seeking a balance of good weather and tranquility.
3. ❄️ Off-Season (October to April)
Unique experience with deserted beaches perfect for long walks. Dramatic seascapes and excellent photo opportunities. Cozy seaside towns with a more authentic local vibe. Christmas markets in December, especially charming in places like Honfleur. Lower prices on accommodations and attractions throughout the coast. Heated terraces in restaurants offer comfortable dining with sea views.
4. 🏄♂️ Best Time for Specific Beach Activities
Swimming and sunbathing best from late June to early September. Water sports ideal from May to October for consistent winds. Coastal walks most enjoyable in April-June and September-October. Photography opportunities year-round, best in early morning or late afternoon. Cultural experiences and local festivals available throughout the year.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches near Paris ❔
Is Paris worth visiting?
Yes, Paris is generally considered worth visiting. While it has some downsides like any major city, it offers unique architecture, culture, history, art, and cuisine that make it a worthwhile destination for many travelers.
What coastal town is close to Paris?
Deauville is one of the closest and most popular coastal towns near Paris, about 2 hours away by train. Other options include Trouville-sur-Mer and Honfleur.
Are beaches near Paris swimmable?
Yes, there are swimmable beaches near Paris. Places like Deauville, Trouville, and Le Touquet offer sandy beaches where swimming is possible.
Where is the clearest water near Paris?
For sea swimming, beaches in Normandy like Deauville and Trouville are popular options.
